SolutionsHub, a leading expert in the licensing and maintenance of eGaming businesses, have confirmed that James O’Kelly has assumed a broader role in the senior management team to the position of Head of Operations.

James previously held the position of Operations Manager and has been instrumental in the success of clients during a period of significant growth for the business. With over 3 years at SolutionsHub, James has supported clients through successful licence applications and played a pivotal role establishing their operational bases in the Isle of Man.

In his new role, James will lead the delivery of SolutionsHub’s award-winning service suite, as well as implementing operational best practices and new technologies in line with the company’s strategy at a group level.

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Lee Hills, Founder of the SolutionsHub Group, said: “James has been a key part of our team for more than 3 years. He has led from the front and is a shining example in delivering client centric, industry leading solutions for our partners. We’re incredibly proud to have supported James in his career growth and this promotion is a recognition of the hard work that James has put in during his time here.

“Our business has experienced rapid growth in the last 18 months, and with James onboard to manage our operations, we are confident that 2024 shall continue our growth expansion.”

James, Head of Operations at SolutionsHub, said: “I am excited to assume this new and more comprehensive role of building upon the strong foundations for our existing and potential partners.

“As a business and team, we are well placed to continue to deliver robust, scalable solutions and ensure that our partners can focus on building sucessful businesses. With the company’s rapid expansion and ambitious plans for the future, I would like to especially thank Lee and Nick for their incredible support and for the new opportunity to lead SolutionsHub’s operational initiatives.”

Alpha Odds, Sportradar’s AI-driven personalised odds technology, boosted profits for sportsbook operators by an average of 15% during the UEFA European Championship Qualifying Matches. With the upcoming UEFA Euro 2024 anticipated to generate more than €62.2 billion in global betting turnover, operators can maximize profits and manage risk by utilizing this product during the quadrennial tournament.

Launched in 2022, Alpha Odds leverages Sportradar’s advanced AI technology to more accurately predict the probability of a game event taking place, enabling operators to manage their risk more effectively. When combined with real-time and predicted liquidity, Alpha Odds allows operators to generate bespoke betting prices in line with their risk exposure and liabilities.

As examples of how Alpha Odds increased profitability for operators during the UEFA Euro 2024 Qualifiers, where one team was heavily favoured, Alpha Odds helped clients manage risk in real-time and continue to accept bets as goals were tallied and the scoreline grew. Additionally, while a conventional odds service would have left operators vulnerable to a matchday of customer friendly results, such as all the favourites winning at home by two or more goals, Alpha Odds’ predictive capabilities enabled instant adjustments, safeguarding sportsbooks against significant losses, as a match unfolded.

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Darren Small, Senior Vice President of Managed Trading Services (MTS) at Sportradar, said: “The predictive capabilities that Sportradar has developed for Alpha Odds are proving to be a game changer ahead of this summer’s tournament, enabling operators to consistently improve profitability and deliver higher margins across soccer betting.”

Alpha Odds is available across Sportradar’s portfolio of betting markets for soccer and tennis, both pre-match and in-play. The solution will be expanded across basketball later in 2024.

eCOGRA, the leading Testing, Inspection, and Certification company serving the iGaming industry, announced two changes to its leadership structure.

Following a period of outstanding international growth, which has seen eCOGRA expand to 39 jurisdictional approvals, including most recently Peru and Brazil, as well as establish new offices in Europe and the US, the business announced Will Shuckburgh has been appointed to the newly created role of Group CEO from 1 July 2024. As part of the transition to a fully global business, the Company also announced Shaun McCallaghan, who has been with the Company for 16 years, the last 6 of which have been as CEO, will take on the new board role of Senior Director, Operations and Regulatory Affairs.

Will Shuckburgh brings a proven track record leading customer focused businesses through periods of high growth and international expansion. Will, who joined eCOGRA in January 2024, is set to assume the role of Group CEO, following a 6-month hand over period. He has previously held positions as Managing Director at Nectar, Executive Vice President & Chief Membership Officer at Rakuten, as well as Chief Executive Officer of Invincible Brands, amongst others. In these roles, he successfully designed and executed strategies, to achieve profitable growth across multiple markets where client experience was essential.

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Shaun McCallaghan has been a driving force behind eCOGRA’s success in recent years. Shaun’s approach is underscored by hard work, unwavering client loyalty and service, and the building of robust regulatory business relationships. Shaun has played a key role in securing dual accreditations, expanding jurisdictional coverage, diversifying the service offering, and enlarging eCOGRA’s client and staff base, while also successfully extending Testing, Inspection, and Certification services into North and South America. These, amongst many other achievements, have helped eCOGRA continue to grow and support clients in the ever-changing regulatory environment in which they operate.

Shaun now looks forward to taking up his newly formed role of Senior Director, Operations and Regulatory Affairs. This role will focus on ensuring clients will continue to receive the same high quality and reliable services that they have been accustomed to from eCOGRA. Shaun will continue to be a member of the board.

Mark Brooker, the Group Chairman, said: “Will’s appointment brings fresh energy, insight and strategic vision, aligning perfectly with eCOGRA’s commitment to excellence across each of its markets. The changes also reflect eCOGRA’s commitment to stability and innovation, with Shaun continuing to play a key role in the Company’s future success through his new role of Senior Director, Operations and Regulatory Affairs.”

David Cowan, representing the majority shareholder Hanover Investors, commented: “This transition signifies a natural evolution in eCOGRA’s leadership landscape in response to the strong growth of the business. Shaun’s transition enables a more hands-on approach to delivery, ensuring eCOGRA’s expansion maintains the highest standards of service to positively elevate the client journey. Meanwhile, Will Shuckburgh, is a seasoned high-growth CEO with an impressive track record, who brings visionary leadership and transformative abilities to the business. Known for identifying and capitalising on emerging opportunities, Will’s focus on fostering a culture of collaboration, and continuous improvement will elevate eCOGRA’s global presence. Together Will and Shaun will maintain our steadfast commitment to excellence and have the full support of the Board and the Shareholders.”